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July 3, 2014 – The “lazy days of summer” were nowhere to be found last week for a curious group of kids who spent their time exploring science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) at Davidson County Community College.

A total of 27 first-, second- and third-graders attended DCCC’s STEM Jr. Camp, where they experienced a variety of fun, hands-on activities and educational projects including glow jars, crystal growing, house construction, dry ice bubbles and the very popular egg walk.

“It’s so exciting to see the light bulbs go off in the children’s heads when they see science at work,” says Sharon Carter, the camp’s lead instructor. "That’s what’s great about the STEM concept. They see it, interact with it, get excited about it and go home and tell their parents what they learned. It’s very cool!”

The camp concluded with a Celebration of Learning event held in DCCC’s Brinkley Gym. The event allowed this year’s campers the opportunity to share their favorite activities and demonstrate the science behind those activities in front of their parents, family members and others in attendance. For their participation, each camper received a certificate, backpack, t-shirt and an ice cream party.

For 7-year-old Parker Kines, building a structure out of common household materials was the highlight of his week.

For first year camper Mackenzie Walser, growing crystals in a painted eggshell was her favorite part of camp.

“We blew yolk out of an egg, gave the egg a bath, and cut the eggshell into two pieces,” says 6-year-old Walser. “Then, we put some stuff on it to make crystals grow—it was neat.”

During the week of July 14, DCCC will host its second STEM camp, this time for rising fourth- through eighth-graders. For more information about DCCC Camps visit http://www.davidsonccc.edu/camps.

*Editor’s Note: In the first photo, Mackenzie Walser holds an eggshell that has small crystals forming on the inside. In the second photo, Anden Williams (front) and fellow camper Victor Smith take a break from their activities. The campers are wearing tie-dye shirts they made during camp.

Founded in 1963, Davidson County Community College is noted for its quality educational programs and services. As one of 58 institutions within the North Carolina Community College System, DCCC offers studies in more than 50 degree programs. A fully-accredited, multi-campus college, DCCC celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2013 and is looking forward to serving students in Davidson and Davie counties for many years to come. The college is committed to developing minds, inspiring imaginations, and preparing students for enhanced career and educational opportunities within a changing global environment. Visit Davidson County Community College on the Web at davidsonccc.edu.